Wavelength, Frequency, & Speed of Light in Different Media

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the time it takes for a pulse of light to travel through a glass medium with an index of refraction of n=1.5. The wavelength of the laser light in vacuum is given as L/10, and the frequency is denoted as f. The derived formula for the time taken is t = 15/f, which is obtained by substituting the speed of light in glass (c/n) into the distance over speed equation. The solution emphasizes the relationship between wavelength, frequency, and speed of light in different media.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the speed of light equation: c = λ * f
  • Knowledge of the index of refraction and its implications on light speed
  • Familiarity with basic physics concepts related to wave propagation
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic equations for problem-solving
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the implications of different indices of refraction on light speed in various materials
  • Learn about the relationship between frequency and wavelength in electromagnetic waves
  • Investigate the concept of light pulses and their behavior in optical fibers
  • Study the derivation of time calculations in wave mechanics
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, educators teaching optics, and professionals working in fields related to photonics and optical engineering will benefit from this discussion.

jcvince17
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Homework Statement



A beam of light from a monochromatic laser shines into a piece of glass. The glass has thickness L and index of refraction n=1.5. The wavelength of the laser light in vacuum is L/10 and its frequency is f. In this problem, neither the constant c nor its numerical value should appear in any of your answers

How long does it take for a short pulse of light to travel from one end of the glass to the other?
Express your answer in terms of some or all of the variables f and L. Use the numeric value given for in the introduction.



Homework Equations



c = \lambda * f
f = 1/t
n = c/v

The Attempt at a Solution



t = 15/f

i know this answer is correct, but I still cannot come up with how the correct answer was derived.
https://www.physicsforums.com/archive/index.php/t-225369.html
 
Last edited:
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The speed in the glass is c/n = c/1.5
The time through the glass is distance/speed = L / (c/1.5)
Since you know c = \lambda * f, you simple have to rearrange the equation subsituting for c.
 
thanks you. i will begin working out the substitution.
 

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